that you choose the right Realtor to work with.
In today’s market you need an agent that
demonstrates knowledge and expertise throughout

SO
LD

When it comes to the sale of your property, it’s critical

the whole transaction. You need someone that
excels at everything from marketing to negotiating.
I have years of experience as a Realtor specializing
in Scottsdale, Phoenix & the East Valley and I will

CHOCOLATE MOUSSE TIRAMISU
Setting the stage for a spring fete for friends and
family? Whether it’s Easter, Passover, or simply a
gourmet spring fling, set your table with flair this
season. Jot down these ideas to make your meal
the most memorable of the spring party season.
First, you’ll need to choose a color scheme. Spring’s
trendiest hues this year include tranquil sky blues,
vintage purples, and minty greens, often paired with
contrasting pinky reds, vibrant yellows, and energetic
spicy oranges. Neutral tans and subtle, elegant grays
also play their part in the most elegant table settings
of the season. Choose one or two soothing hues for a
tranquil Easter brunch, or pick two opposing hues for
an up-to-the-minute spring dinner party.
After you choose your hues, flowers are the next
element of your table setting, and often the most fun
to select. What type? What size? What vases? How
many on the table? For an elegant look, pair soothing
blue hydrangeas with bright purple tulips for a punch
of spring color. Or get a tropical look by mixing bright
yellow and orange blooms together with a softer more
elegant gray or white. This will surely bring the look of
sunshine to your table.
When selecting a vase, go elegant and subdued—
think silver, white, or gold—if your flowers are bright

INGREDIENTS
1lb bittersweet chocolate
6 eggs (whites only)
1 c granulated sugar
1 c water
3 c heavy cream
1 package lady finger cookies
1 vanilla bean
4 c espresso
12-8oz mason jars
FOR THE MOUSSE
Melt chocolate over a double boiler until smooth
and silky. In a small heavy sauce pot, place the
sugar and water over medium heat and bring to the
“softball stage” approximately 235-240 degrees. In the
meantime, in a stand mixer, whisk the egg whites to a
stiff peak. Once the egg whites are at stiff peaks, on a
low speed, slowly drizzle the sugar water mixture into
the egg whites to make a meringue. Set the meringue
aside. Scrape the inside of the vanilla bean to get as
much of the seeds as possible and mix with the cream.
Whisk the cream in a stand mixer until you are at stiff
peaks as well. Fold the chocolate into the meringue
carefully, incorporating thoroughly. Take the chocolate
meringue and fold that into the whipped cream to
create a silky chocolate mousse.
FOR THE TIRAMISU
In the bottom of a mason jar spoon a layer of the
mousse. Dip the ladyfingers in the espresso as you go
or they will turn to mush! Place a dipped ladyfinger into
the mason jar and top with more mousse. Repeat one
more time and smooth out the top! Allow the mousse
to set overnight and garnish with what you wish!

The Tax Man Cometh...

Is a refund on the horizon for you? Not many of us look forward
to April 15—most commonly referred to as “Tax Day”. Several
new tax laws took effect in 2013 that may impact your tax bill
when you file your 2013 federal income taxes.
For those with taxable incomes of more than $450,000, the top
statutory income tax rate on ordinary income has increased from
35% to 39.6% and the top statutory tax rate on long-term capital
gains and qualified dividends has increased from 15% to 20%.
Because of this, income deferral strategies and investments that
generate tax-free income have become even more valuable.
Let’s look at a few strategies that could help reduce your
tax burden. As with all tax strategies, please consult a tax
professional for advice regarding your particular situation.

1031 LIKE-KIND EXCHANGES:
A 1031 exchange is a swap of one business or investment
asset for another. A 1031 is not restricted to real estate, but that
is what gets the most discussion. The 1031 exchange allows you
to change the form of your investment without cashing out and
recognizing a taxable capital gain. Therefore, your investment
continues to grow tax deferred. For example, you can continue
to roll over the gain from one piece of investment real estate to
another—there is no limit on how many times you can do a 1031
exchange. Income taxes are avoided until you sell for cash.
Advice from a tax professional is crucial because there are
specific rules you must be aware of.

TAX-DEFERRED ANNUITIES:
Tax-deferred annuities can be valuable if you have exhausted
other forms of tax-favored retirement savings, such as 401(k)s and
IRAs. Invest a lump sum into the annuity and let it compound tax
free for a long time—usually a decade or longer. When you do
pull the money out, the profits are taxable as ordinary income.

LONG-TERM GROWTH SECURITIES:
This is an investing concept where a security will appreciate
in value for a relatively long period of time. Securities held for
more than one year are taxed at a lower, long-term capital
gains tax rate.

QUALIFYING INSTALLMENTS SALES:
An installment sale is a sale of property where you receive at
least one payment after the tax year of the sale. Installment
sales can be a valuable tool to help sellers defer tax. But there is
risk involved since the buyer may default on a future payment.

TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS:
Municipal bonds are issued by states, cities, and counties to
raise funds. Interest income from holders of municipal bonds is
often exempt from federal income tax and may also be exempt
from state income tax.

and eye-catching. If the floral arrangement is more
subtle, look for a bright, fun vase to show them off.
For an average size dining table, one substantial
arrangement may be enough, but several smaller
arrangements scattered down the center of the
table is even more elegant and can be enjoyed by
all your dining companions no matter where they
are seated. While you’re thinking flowers, place a
few arrangements throughout your home, say in the
entryway, and in your living room to greet guests as
they enjoy visiting your abode.
When selecting china and table linens, it’s best to
make sure either one or the other is a neutral color.
Vibrant orange placemats and linen napkins will
pair deliciously with pure white china and dazzling
crystal and sparkling silverware, for example. Or look
for bright, trendy china in say purple or green hues
and pair these with classic white or gray linens for a
very modern and current look. Patterned placemats,
napkins, even napkin rings in your color scheme can
elevate the look of your table setting in seconds flat.
The icing on the cake? Sparkling crystal wine and
water glasses and gleaming silverware are the
finishing touches that will set the stage for a spring
affair to remember. Bon appétit!

44th Annual Scottsdale Arts Festival
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts | March 14-16
480.499.8587 | ScottsdalePerformingArts.org
The Scottsdale Arts Festival has been recognized for its
high-quality fine arts since 1971. The Festival showcases
nearly 200 jury-selected artists from throughout the United
States and Canada who work in painting, sculpture, glass
and ceramics, jewelry, photography and more. Works of
art are available for purchase directly from the artists and
through the Festival’s online art auction.
Masters of Movement
Orpheum Theatre | March 27-30
602.381.1096 | BalletAZ.org
Masters of Movement features works by acclaimed modern
day dance choreographers that push the boundaries
of classical ballet. Alejandro Cerrudo, acclaimed
choreographer from Hubbard Street Dance Chicago,
presents Off Screen, with dance inspired by film scores.
It’s slinky and modern, with sexy steps and eccentric
moves. Ib Andersen’s elegant and intricate masterpiece
Symphonie Classique returns with costumes by Martin
Pakledinaz, two-time Tony Award winning designer.
2014 Windsor Square Home and Garden Tour
Windsor Square Historic District | March 30
602.619.4444 | WindsorSquarePhoenix.org
Located at Central Avenue and Camelback Road in the
central corridor of Phoenix, Windsor Square is one of the
most sought-after historic neighborhoods in Arizona. The
breathtakingly beautiful Windsor Square neighborhood is
rich with history with many homes that are 60 to 75 years
old. Started in 1929, the 260-home neighborhood
is considered to be one of the first few suburbs of the
city of Phoenix. The historic home and garden tour is a
self-guided walking tour featuring 12 historic homes, a
beautiful garden, plant societies and a beer garden.
Music in the Garden
Desert Botanical Garden | April 4
480.481.8188 | DBG.org
Situated at the base of a saguaro-lined butte, Music in the
Desert Botanical Garden pairs great live local bands with
the most enchanting venue in the Valley. Fabulous Food
Fine Catering and Events provides a chef-attended station
featuring weekly specials for an additional charge. The
Patio Café will also be open during the concert with items
for purchase from the café menu. A full cash bar, wine
flights and wine by the bottle are available for purchase.
Scottsdale Culinary Festival
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts | April 8-13
480.945.7193 | ScottsdaleFest.org
This festival draws more than 40,000 visitors looking to enjoy
fabulous food, fun and festivities. No matter what kind
of culinary experience you crave, there’s something for
everyone! If you love great food, fine wine and boutique
brews, the Scottsdale Culinary Festival is a priority on your
itinerary. This six-day celebration of the culinary arts has
something for everyone, from exquisite multi-course meals
and wine-and-chocolate pairings to the Great Arizona Picnic.

In Good Taste

Event Calendar

Virtù, Honest Craft
480.946.3477 | VirtuScottsdale.com

MARCH | APRIL 2014

CHOCOLATE MOUSSE TIRAMISU
Setting the stage for a spring fete for friends and
family? Whether it’s Easter, Passover, or simply a
gourmet spring fling, set your table with flair this
season. Jot down these ideas to make your meal
the most memorable of the spring party season.
First, you’ll need to choose a color scheme. Spring’s
trendiest hues this year include tranquil sky blues,
vintage purples, and minty greens, often paired with
contrasting pinky reds, vibrant yellows, and energetic
spicy oranges. Neutral tans and subtle, elegant grays
also play their part in the most elegant table settings
of the season. Choose one or two soothing hues for a
tranquil Easter brunch, or pick two opposing hues for
an up-to-the-minute spring dinner party.
After you choose your hues, flowers are the next
element of your table setting, and often the most fun
to select. What type? What size? What vases? How
many on the table? For an elegant look, pair soothing
blue hydrangeas with bright purple tulips for a punch
of spring color. Or get a tropical look by mixing bright
yellow and orange blooms together with a softer more
elegant gray or white. This will surely bring the look of
sunshine to your table.
When selecting a vase, go elegant and subdued—
think silver, white, or gold—if your flowers are bright

INGREDIENTS
1lb bittersweet chocolate
6 eggs (whites only)
1 c granulated sugar
1 c water
3 c heavy cream
1 package lady finger cookies
1 vanilla bean
4 c espresso
12-8oz mason jars
FOR THE MOUSSE
Melt chocolate over a double boiler until smooth
and silky. In a small heavy sauce pot, place the
sugar and water over medium heat and bring to the
“softball stage” approximately 235-240 degrees. In the
meantime, in a stand mixer, whisk the egg whites to a
stiff peak. Once the egg whites are at stiff peaks, on a
low speed, slowly drizzle the sugar water mixture into
the egg whites to make a meringue. Set the meringue
aside. Scrape the inside of the vanilla bean to get as
much of the seeds as possible and mix with the cream.
Whisk the cream in a stand mixer until you are at stiff
peaks as well. Fold the chocolate into the meringue
carefully, incorporating thoroughly. Take the chocolate
meringue and fold that into the whipped cream to
create a silky chocolate mousse.
FOR THE TIRAMISU
In the bottom of a mason jar spoon a layer of the
mousse. Dip the ladyfingers in the espresso as you go
or they will turn to mush! Place a dipped ladyfinger into
the mason jar and top with more mousse. Repeat one
more time and smooth out the top! Allow the mousse
to set overnight and garnish with what you wish!

The Tax Man Cometh...

Is a refund on the horizon for you? Not many of us look forward
to April 15—most commonly referred to as “Tax Day”. Several
new tax laws took effect in 2013 that may impact your tax bill
when you file your 2013 federal income taxes.
For those with taxable incomes of more than $450,000, the top
statutory income tax rate on ordinary income has increased from
35% to 39.6% and the top statutory tax rate on long-term capital
gains and qualified dividends has increased from 15% to 20%.
Because of this, income deferral strategies and investments that
generate tax-free income have become even more valuable.
Let’s look at a few strategies that could help reduce your
tax burden. As with all tax strategies, please consult a tax
professional for advice regarding your particular situation.

1031 LIKE-KIND EXCHANGES:
A 1031 exchange is a swap of one business or investment
asset for another. A 1031 is not restricted to real estate, but that
is what gets the most discussion. The 1031 exchange allows you
to change the form of your investment without cashing out and
recognizing a taxable capital gain. Therefore, your investment
continues to grow tax deferred. For example, you can continue
to roll over the gain from one piece of investment real estate to
another—there is no limit on how many times you can do a 1031
exchange. Income taxes are avoided until you sell for cash.
Advice from a tax professional is crucial because there are
specific rules you must be aware of.

TAX-DEFERRED ANNUITIES:
Tax-deferred annuities can be valuable if you have exhausted
other forms of tax-favored retirement savings, such as 401(k)s and
IRAs. Invest a lump sum into the annuity and let it compound tax
free for a long time—usually a decade or longer. When you do
pull the money out, the profits are taxable as ordinary income.

LONG-TERM GROWTH SECURITIES:
This is an investing concept where a security will appreciate
in value for a relatively long period of time. Securities held for
more than one year are taxed at a lower, long-term capital
gains tax rate.

QUALIFYING INSTALLMENTS SALES:
An installment sale is a sale of property where you receive at
least one payment after the tax year of the sale. Installment
sales can be a valuable tool to help sellers defer tax. But there is
risk involved since the buyer may default on a future payment.

TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS:
Municipal bonds are issued by states, cities, and counties to
raise funds. Interest income from holders of municipal bonds is
often exempt from federal income tax and may also be exempt
from state income tax.

and eye-catching. If the floral arrangement is more
subtle, look for a bright, fun vase to show them off.
For an average size dining table, one substantial
arrangement may be enough, but several smaller
arrangements scattered down the center of the
table is even more elegant and can be enjoyed by
all your dining companions no matter where they
are seated. While you’re thinking flowers, place a
few arrangements throughout your home, say in the
entryway, and in your living room to greet guests as
they enjoy visiting your abode.
When selecting china and table linens, it’s best to
make sure either one or the other is a neutral color.
Vibrant orange placemats and linen napkins will
pair deliciously with pure white china and dazzling
crystal and sparkling silverware, for example. Or look
for bright, trendy china in say purple or green hues
and pair these with classic white or gray linens for a
very modern and current look. Patterned placemats,
napkins, even napkin rings in your color scheme can
elevate the look of your table setting in seconds flat.
The icing on the cake? Sparkling crystal wine and
water glasses and gleaming silverware are the
finishing touches that will set the stage for a spring
affair to remember. Bon appétit!

44th Annual Scottsdale Arts Festival
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts | March 14-16
480.499.8587 | ScottsdalePerformingArts.org
The Scottsdale Arts Festival has been recognized for its
high-quality fine arts since 1971. The Festival showcases
nearly 200 jury-selected artists from throughout the United
States and Canada who work in painting, sculpture, glass
and ceramics, jewelry, photography and more. Works of
art are available for purchase directly from the artists and
through the Festival’s online art auction.
Masters of Movement
Orpheum Theatre | March 27-30
602.381.1096 | BalletAZ.org
Masters of Movement features works by acclaimed modern
day dance choreographers that push the boundaries
of classical ballet. Alejandro Cerrudo, acclaimed
choreographer from Hubbard Street Dance Chicago,
presents Off Screen, with dance inspired by film scores.
It’s slinky and modern, with sexy steps and eccentric
moves. Ib Andersen’s elegant and intricate masterpiece
Symphonie Classique returns with costumes by Martin
Pakledinaz, two-time Tony Award winning designer.
2014 Windsor Square Home and Garden Tour
Windsor Square Historic District | March 30
602.619.4444 | WindsorSquarePhoenix.org
Located at Central Avenue and Camelback Road in the
central corridor of Phoenix, Windsor Square is one of the
most sought-after historic neighborhoods in Arizona. The
breathtakingly beautiful Windsor Square neighborhood is
rich with history with many homes that are 60 to 75 years
old. Started in 1929, the 260-home neighborhood
is considered to be one of the first few suburbs of the
city of Phoenix. The historic home and garden tour is a
self-guided walking tour featuring 12 historic homes, a
beautiful garden, plant societies and a beer garden.
Music in the Garden
Desert Botanical Garden | April 4
480.481.8188 | DBG.org
Situated at the base of a saguaro-lined butte, Music in the
Desert Botanical Garden pairs great live local bands with
the most enchanting venue in the Valley. Fabulous Food
Fine Catering and Events provides a chef-attended station
featuring weekly specials for an additional charge. The
Patio Café will also be open during the concert with items
for purchase from the café menu. A full cash bar, wine
flights and wine by the bottle are available for purchase.
Scottsdale Culinary Festival
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts | April 8-13
480.945.7193 | ScottsdaleFest.org
This festival draws more than 40,000 visitors looking to enjoy
fabulous food, fun and festivities. No matter what kind
of culinary experience you crave, there’s something for
everyone! If you love great food, fine wine and boutique
brews, the Scottsdale Culinary Festival is a priority on your
itinerary. This six-day celebration of the culinary arts has
something for everyone, from exquisite multi-course meals
and wine-and-chocolate pairings to the Great Arizona Picnic.

Villas At
Northern Heights

March | April 2014

Jennifer Wilson

LOYALTY, COMMITMENT, KNOWLEDGE

GETTING YOUR HOME SOLD IN

The Villas at Northern Heights

that you choose the right Realtor to work with.
In today’s market you need an agent that
demonstrates knowledge and expertise throughout

SO
LD

When it comes to the sale of your property, it’s critical

the whole transaction. You need someone that
excels at everything from marketing to negotiating.
I have years of experience as a Realtor specializing
in Scottsdale, Phoenix & the East Valley and I will